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Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

4.9
(3.4k Reviews)

About the place

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady has long been the gold standard among all Chicago tour experiences, and is the only Chicago architecture boat tour led by highly trained expert docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you will enjoy an overview of historic and modern architectural styles including stories about the people who designed and built Chicago. As a certified nonprofit, all ticket purchases directly support education efforts and community engagement projects. No visit to Chicago is complete without experiencing this award winning tour, so accept no substitutes.

Location
Chicago, Illinois
Phone number
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Timing
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What people are saying?

Based on the recent visits

9
985mirandaf
Nov 17, 2025
5
Amazing!
The tour was fun, engaging, educational, and entertaining! Our guide was wonderful! Be sure to bring hat and sunscreen.
m
markeS375IG
Nov 17, 2025
5
Great way to see Chicago!
Had a great experience with Chicago Architecture First Lady! Paul was the tour guide and he did an amazing job describing the historical significance of all the buildings around the river. Truly stunning some of the designs and how they had to accommodate for the limited space they had to build and other zoning restrictions. Views were terrific from the top deck and combined with Paul's knowledge of the architecture, the tour gave me a deeper appreciation for the city. Booze and bathrooms on board so they got you covered. I used priority boarding but I think you would only need to do that if it were a super busy day.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Local guide (docents)

Restroom on board

Live commentary on board

River sightseeing cruise

Climate controlled lower level

Drinks & light snacks (available to purchase)

Storage for luggage

WiFi on board

Itinerary

1

Chicago

Chicago, United States

We will be viewing the Chicago Shoreline from our vessel on the water. Our tour guide will provide historical context and information about important sites along the way.

Additional Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Not recommended for children younger than 12 years
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • IMPORTANT: For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Guests who are able to transfer may use the company's manual wheelchair based on availability.
  • WARNING: Tickets are not refundable or transferrable to other departures.
  • Pets are not allowed
  • IMPORTANT: There is no elevator access to the boat dock.
  • IMPORTANT: Most, but not all, departures are wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
  • All seating is General Admission. Boarding is on a first come, first serve basis
  • Routes, specific vessels, and schedules are subject to change without notice

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Activity tags

CruisesArchitecture ToursOutdoorTop Attractions
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